Oregon Appoints First Chief Privacy Officer and AI Strategist

Salem, Oregon- Oregon has appointed its first Chief Privacy Officer and Artificial Intelligence Strategist, a newly created position aimed at strengthening the state’s approach to data protection, privacy, and emerging technologies.

Nik Blosser, a longtime public servant and business leader, was named to the dual role by Oregon Chief Information Officer Terrence Woods, Director of the state’s Enterprise Information Services (EIS). The position is the first of its kind in Oregon government.

Blosser will be tasked with crafting a strategic vision for statewide privacy and data governance, while also leading policy development and implementation related to artificial intelligence.

“Adding a Chief Privacy Officer and AI Strategist to the team at EIS has been a goal of mine for a few years and I am excited to bring Nik onboard,” Woods said in a statement. “Nik will significantly enhance our ability to safeguard data, ensure compliance with privacy regulations, prioritize workforce AI literacy, and lead efforts to promote a culture of awareness across all state agencies, ultimately making Oregon a leader in data protection, privacy management, and AI governance.”

Blosser brings both public and private sector experience to the role. A Stanford University graduate with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering and English, Blosser served as Chief of Staff to former Oregon Governor Kate Brown and held senior roles in the Executive Office of the President and The White House.

He was also Chair and a longtime board member of Sokol Blosser Winery, one of Oregon’s oldest family-owned wineries. In the private sector, Blosser co-founded Celilo Group Media, a company focused on sustainable consumer products.

His volunteer work includes board service with organizations such as Literary Arts, Oregon Business & Industry, and the Oregon Environmental Council.

In his new role, Blosser is expected to guide Oregon through the evolving landscape of data privacy and AI governance, helping state agencies navigate complex ethical, legal, and technical challenges while promoting innovation and accountability.

Officials say the appointment underscores Oregon’s efforts to modernize its technology infrastructure and position itself as a leader in responsible technology management.

time.